Two civilian search and rescue vessels operating in Ukrainian waters were reportedly struck during a humanitarian mission in the Black Sea, resulting in injuries and an emergency evacuation effort, according to Ukrainian officials.

Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Kuleba stated that the vessels belonged to the country's maritime search and rescue service and were conducting operations within Ukraine’s maritime corridor when the incident occurred. The corridor has been used to facilitate vessel movements and support maritime activities in the region amid the ongoing conflict.

According to initial reports, the attack left several personnel injured. Ukrainian naval units were deployed to evacuate those affected and provide assistance to the vessels involved. Authorities did not immediately disclose the number of casualties or the extent of damage sustained by the boats.

Ukrainian officials described the vessels as civilian rescue craft engaged in humanitarian operations. They argued that search and rescue vessels performing such missions are protected under international humanitarian law and should not be targeted during armed conflicts.

The incident adds to ongoing security concerns in the Black Sea, where maritime operations continue to face risks from military activity. Since the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, ports, commercial vessels, and maritime infrastructure throughout the region have periodically been affected by attacks, disrupting shipping routes and raising safety concerns for seafarers and maritime workers.

At the time of reporting, Russian authorities had not publicly commented on the specific allegations regarding the attack on the rescue vessels. Independent verification of the circumstances surrounding the incident remains limited.

Maritime observers note that the Black Sea remains one of the most closely monitored waterways in the world due to its strategic importance for regional trade, grain exports, and international shipping. The latest incident is expected to draw further attention to the safety of humanitarian and civilian maritime operations in conflict-affected waters.